Mr. Speaker, the amendment is based on the Criminal Code's prohibition against promoting hatred, which is a criminal offence.
There have been situations, like that of imam Charkaoui, for example, who promoted hatred against the Jewish people. He was not prosecuted because of the religious exemption. Eta Yudin, vice-president of the Quebec chapter of the Centre for Israel and Jewish Affairs, said that this demonstrates clear shortcomings in the Criminal Code, meaning that, in its current form, the legislation is incapable of protecting the public against hate speech. That explains the call for change that we are making today.
What does it mean to defend freedom? Yes, everyone must be able to practise their religion and have their own ideas, even if it causes discomfort, but collectively, we must set boundaries. Prohibiting the promotion of hatred is one guideline, and yet there is a religious exemption.
Why does the hon. member want to defend this tooth and nail?